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Summary

  • Aftermarket replacement hitches are as durable as their OE counterparts but they’re more affordable, which means you can get the same quality while saving money.

  • The best aftermarket hitch brands are Curt, Draw-Tite, Mopar, A-Premium, Rugged Ridge, and Crown.

  • When buying hitches, consider application, quality, compatibility, cost, and installation.

Don’t put off fixing a damaged or aging hitch. A worn-out mount, rusted frame, or weakened receiver can cause unsafe towing conditions and uneven weight distribution. If your hitch creaks under load or shows visible corrosion, it’s time to replace it before it compromises your vehicle’s towing ability or frame integrity.

A failed hitch also limits what your vehicle can do. Without a strong, properly fitted receiver, you can’t tow trailers, mount bike racks, or carry cargo safely. Replacing a failing hitch restores towing stability and expands what your vehicle can handle every day.

Aftermarket replacement hitches are as durable as their OE counterparts but they’re more affordable, which means you can get the same quality while saving money. Check out high-quality replacement hitches at CarParts.com today.

The 6 Best Hitch Brands

Not all hitches are built the same. These brands have earned solid reputations for their construction quality, fitment, and long-term dependability. Whether you need a hitch for heavy towing or light utility use, these names consistently perform well:

Curt

Curt is one of the leading hitch manufacturers in North America. It’s known for precise welding, strong steel construction, and corrosion-resistant finishes. Its hitches fit thousands of vehicles and cover everything from small cars to heavy trucks. Curt’s consistent build quality and tight fitment make it a trusted choice among everyday drivers and towing professionals alike.

Key Features:

  • Price range: $110–$620
  • Available in 2-inch and 1.25-inch receivers, front-mount, and heavy-duty types
  • Free shipping on many listings through CarParts.com
  • Covers Class I through Class IV, with towing up to 10,000 lbs
  • Durable black powder coating protects against rust
  • Bolt-on installation; no drilling required for most models
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Our Score: 10/10

Draw-Tite

Draw-Tite has produced hitches since 1946 and remains known for its strong construction and precise fitment. Many drivers choose it for frequent towing or off-road use because its designs balance strength with accurate alignment. Each Draw-Tite hitch is engineered to match the vehicle frame closely, reducing stress points during towing.

Key Features:

  • Price range: $110–$560
  • Offered in 1.25-inch and 2-inch receivers
  • Designed for bike racks, campers, and midsize trailers
  • Fits a wide range of SUVs, trucks, and crossovers
  • E-coat and powder finishes protect against corrosion
  • Simple bolt-on installation

Our Score: 9.8/10

Mopar

Mopar hitches are made specifically for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles. Because they match factory specifications, they provide the same fit and performance as original parts. Each hitch is tested under the same standards used for OEM components, giving drivers a dependable, direct-fit option.

Key Features:

  • rice range: $100–$800
  • Covers Class II to Class IV hitches
  • Vehicle-specific fit for Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Ram
  • 2-inch receiver tubes available
  • Powder-coated finish resists wear and weather
  • Sold individually; backed by a factory warranty

Our Score: 9.7/10

A-Premium

A-Premium offers affordable hitches without cutting corners on strength. Many of its kits include gooseneck or under-bed assemblies with the required mounting hardware. The brand’s lineup fits both light-duty and heavy-duty towing setups for trucks and SUVs. Each hitch is built from solid steel and inspected for quality before shipping.

Key Features:

  • Price range: $190–$650
  • Includes gooseneck, under-bed, and hitch ball systems
  • Fits GMC, Chevrolet, Ford, Nissan, Ram, and Dodge models
  • Free shipping available on select kits
  • Heavy-duty steel construction for consistent towing performance
  • Comes with installation hardware and clear instructions
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Our Score: 9.5/10

Rugged Ridge

Rugged Ridge specializes in off-road equipment and Jeep accessories. Its hitches are designed for demanding conditions such as trails, mud, and uneven terrain. The brand’s focus on structural integrity and off-road readiness makes its products a dependable choice for Jeep and truck owners who tow frequently.

Key Features:

  • Price range: $110–$290
  • Compatible with most Jeep and off-road vehicles
  • High-strength steel build provides solid towing stability
  • Includes wiring harnesses, bolts, and receiver kits
  • 2-inch receiver configuration
  • Powder-coated finish protects against corrosion

Our Score: 9.3/10

Crown

Crown Automotive has long been trusted by Jeep owners for durable and affordable replacement parts. Its hitches offer straightforward design and easy installation while maintaining dependable performance for smaller loads. They work well for light towing tasks, such as hauling small trailers or attaching bike racks.

Key Features:

  • Price range: $60–$140
  • Class II hitches rated up to 3,500 lbs
  • Fits various Jeep models and SUVs
  • Includes 2-inch receiver and mounting hardware
  • Compact design for light-duty use
  • Bolt-on installation

Our Score: 9/10

Our Recommendation

Curt stands out as the strongest overall option among these six brands. It offers a wide range of fitments, consistent build quality, and excellent resistance to rust. Its hitches are available for nearly every vehicle category, and most installations are quick and clean. For most drivers, Curt provides dependable strength and long service life at a fair price.

Looking for a Replacement Hitch?

Here’s what to consider:

Application

Choose a hitch class that matches your vehicle’s towing load. Smaller cars usually need Class I or II hitches, while trucks and SUVs often require Class III or IV. Exceeding your vehicle’s rated capacity can strain its suspension and brakes, so review your owner’s manual before selecting a hitch.

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Quality and Construction

Look for hitches made from heavy steel and protected by powder or e-coat finishes. These coatings guard against rust from rain and road salt. Brands such as Curt and Draw-Tite use precision welding for consistent structure and strength.

Compatibility

Confirm that the hitch matches your vehicle’s year, make, and model. Vehicle-specific designs, like those from Mopar or Draw-Tite, fit more securely than general-use versions. Proper fitment helps prevent stress on mounting points and keeps your load stable.

Cost and Value

More expensive hitches often feature stronger materials and better coatings. If you want a lower-priced but solid option, A-Premium and Crown offer dependable products for moderate towing needs.

Installation

Bolt-on hitches make installation easier for most DIY owners. Many include complete hardware kits and instructions that eliminate guesswork. Curt and Rugged Ridge models are particularly convenient for home installation.

Get your replacement hitch from CarParts.com today. You’ll find a wide range of options that ship fast and fit your vehicle precisely. Whether you’re towing a camper, hauling gear, or expanding cargo capacity, CarParts.com offers aftermarket hitches that match your needs, delivered right to your door with free shipping.



About The Author
Written By Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

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